7 Things You Probably Never Knew About Bronzer

Sure, becoming a foundation pro is one thing and getting perfectly flushed cheeks is another, but mastering bronzer — that’s a level of beauty expertise that requires major makeup skills! We all know that if done incorrectly, bronzer can go horribly, horribly wrong and orange is not a color any of us are striving for … at least we hope! To help you land a perfectly natural (emphasis on the natural) glow, make sure you’re not forgetting any of these bronzer rules to live by.

1. Apply in the number 3: Not sure exactly where bronzer goes? It’s simple! Just apply as if you’re brushing on a “three” shape — starting just above your temple, down across your cheekbone and then lightly along your jawline toward your chin.

2. It doesn’t go all over your face: We hope you know this one, but just in case, bronzer does NOT go all over your face if you want a natural-looking flush of color. A touch of bronzer should only be used in areas the sun would normally hit your face — like your forehead, cheeks, nose and chin.

3. Matte can be used to contour cheekbones: We love a good contouring palette, but your matte bronzer can also do the trick (we love using NYX Matte Bronzer for this trick). And chances are, you already have one on hand!

4. It can be used to fake a nose job: The same matte bronzer can be used to give your nose a “slimmer” appearance! Using a small crease brush, apply the bronzer from the inner corner of your eyebrow, down to the end of your nose and on the tip. Blend out the harsh edges and enjoy your new button nose!

5. A shimmery bronzer can make oily skin look oilier: While we’re all big (and we mean big!) fans of shimmer, a bronzer that has plenty of sparkle can actually make oily skin appear oilier, instead of “glowy.” For a natural look, use a powder bronzer that has a matte finish or one with very soft or light shimmer.

6. Like foundation and blush, there ARE different formulas: There’s powder bronzer, mineral bronzer, cream bronzer, mousse bronzer, gel bronzer and yes … liquid bronzer! Finding the right formula that works with your skin type is crucial for the perfect finish. Just remember, powders are great for oily skin as they can absorb shine and creams/liquids are great for dry skin types as they can rehydrate your complexion.

7. Bronzer brush size matters: It really, really does. And while you may be tempted to keep using the same blush, foundation or maybe even eye shadow brush you’ve been using for ages, a bronzer brush should be large and soft — otherwise, you’ll end up with harsh, overly-pigmented streaks!

Do you have any bronzer tips & tricks you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below!